What to Wear to a Concert: 20 Outfit Ideas That Feel Easy and Cool

From band tees to mini purses.

By
Jo Rosenthal
Jo Rosenthal
Jo Rosenthal
Jo is a columnist and fashion editor for the avant-garde British magazine Puss Puss. She has contributed to iD, Vice, W, Paper, and more.
Byrdie's Editorial Guidelines
Updated on 02/10/22
what to wear to a concert

Dion Lamar Mills for Byrdie

I don't know about you, but I couldn't be more excited for the return of live music. Whether it's a music festival or a date with a musician at Bowery Ballroom, there are infinite possibilities for a cute outfit and infinite possibilities to have fun. As regular concertgoers, we know every show has its typical attire: a jean jacket, jeans, sneakers, and a band tee. But who says we have to stick to the norm? Why not wear that dress or skirt you’ve been dying to put on for months now? 

I'll be the first one to admit that I've worn uncomfortable shoes to a rock show which ruined the whole experience, especially because it was general admission and people were ready to mosh. Can you think of anything worse than being in a mosh pit wearing 5-inch heels? I can't and I'm very glad that memory is gone. Because going to concerts has been some of my favorite memories, I don't want to look back and remember how wrongly dressed I was.

Comfort is always key when it comes to dressing for a concert, but when that option doesn't sound like your kind of thing, we are here to help bridge the gap between that and what to wear if you're standing around for hours waiting for Miley Cyrus to perform. From chic vintage-inspired pieces and cozy tops to supportive footwear, we’ve rounded up the best pieces to wear for every season of the year.

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Tops

When choosing the best top to wear to a concert, might we recommend something sweet that also works if you wanted to dance like no one's watching? A band tee meets those requirements exactly. Because most concerts have cute merch waiting to be purchased, it's important to wear something cute in the meantime. You never know who you could meet standing in the line waiting to get in. In 2022 you don't even have to know any songs from the band whose t-shirt you're wearing, but it is always fun to widen your music taste.

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Bottoms

As previously mentioned, we aren’t afraid to admit we’ve been ill-equipped in the clothing department at previous concerts—like wearing a mini skirt and heels! But when it comes to style, comfort, and practicality, you can’t go wrong with a pair of jeans or shorts. Especially if it's summer and especially if the concert is outside. Sometimes a band's set can go on for hours, so ensure you’ll be comfortable all night by wearing your favorite denim bottoms. 

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Jackets

Before the show starts, it’s usually cold at the venue. That's because it hasn't been filled with sweaty bodies ready to DANCE. Because you never know what temperature it's going to be, it’s ideal to bring a jacket with you. Even though it feels annoying to carry an extra piece of clothing around, and even if you lose it in the crowd, you’ll be glad you brought it because all that sweaty dancing you'll be doing might turn into what feels like cold rain dripping down your body.

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Shoes

We can't stress enough that comfortable shoes are a must unless it’s a sit-down concert. The opera is a beautiful experience, but there's nothing more thrilling than shoving your body against a stranger to hear the music better. From waiting in line to dancing the night away while your favorite musical act performs, there’s a lot of standing. You’ll want to wear supportive footwear to avoid any post-concert foot pain.

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Handbags

Having to hold your phone or anything in your hands at a concert is anything but convenient. The only thing one should ever hold at a concert is back their tears from how much fun they are having. Concert safety is super important and it's the absolute worst thing when something gets lost or stolen because the chances of getting it back are very slim. Carrying a mini purse or crossbody bag is the perfect solution.

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